Situated in the Welgevoden Game Reserve in the Waterberg (Limpopo province), Welgevonden encompasses 35 000 hectares and is a mere 2h45 minute drive or just a 50 minute flight from OR Tambo airport.
Originally opened in 2008, the lodge was completely re-built and a luxurious exclusive-use Villa added for the first time, which opened at the end of 2015 - after a devasting fire caused damage in October 2013.
If you’re a lover of the outdoors, then a varied terrain with breathtaking landscape is what awaits you. This rare malaria-free reserve is home to the Big Five and some other African favourites. Looking for more? There are guided walks with trained rangers on offer by special arrangement who know the lay of the land.
Birdwatchers: prepare to annoy the heck out of your fellow explorers as you flag your ranger to stop the vehicle every few hundred yards for a new sighting. The reserve is home to over 250 species of birds including rare blue cranes.
At the end of the dusty road lies the exclusive lodge: Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa.
The Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa consists of a beautifully appointed main lodge (which functions as a reception, guest lounge, and restaurant), a spa, a “boma” for dinner under the stars, a curio shop, and a luxurious collection of rooms, suites, and a villa (accommodates six people), every bedroom of which has views over the lawns and watering hole that lie directly in front of the lodge.
The lodge sleeps a total of only 20 guests and includes 2 Deluxe Suites; a 2 bedroom executive suite with en-suite bathrooms; a 2 bedroom family suite with a shared bathroom; a romantic honeymoon suite with a private spa pool and a viewing deck with a daybed.
If you’re looking for exclusivity, then the Villa is perfect for you as it can accommodate six guests but can dine up to 10 people. It is ideal for families or groups of friends travelling together. It houses a private gym, heated swimming pool and yoga room so you can get your zen on. A personal chef, butler and housekeeping staff are ready to wait on you.
Not only does it include a custom-built stargazing ‘star deck’ and a waterhole with underground game viewing hide which is connected with the main lodge by a 65m reinforced concrete tunnel, it’s also the first luxury lodge in South Africa to offer guests unique eye-to-eye encounter with game at the waterhole. This is the perfect vantage point for those with their camera on hand!
If you like to stick to your fitness programme whilst on holiday, Mhondoro has a fully equipped gym, infrared sauna and heated swimming pools for all year-round swimming.
If you’re looking for relaxation and inner peace then the Massage Suite complete with a private, outdoor spa deck and bath is the choice for you.
With a modern, sophisticated yet comfortable design, guests are invited to relax on the expansive wooden decks overlooking the waterhole, or if you prefer to cuddle up in a cosy corner next to a roaring fireplace with a good read- the choice is ultimately yours.
With its breathtaking views, it is a picturesque romantic wedding or honeymoon destination. No need to get on a plane after saying ‘I do’, this lodge boasts a beautiful honeymoon suite, which will have you living in luxury. Featuring a spacious bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, private viewing deck with a spa pool and daybed overlooking the waterhole and reserve.
Situated furthest away from the lodge, the honeymoon suite is intimate and secluded, making it the ideal spot to sip a glass of bubbly and toile back with your partner and stargaze at night.
Have a look at this beautiful real wedding at Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa for more wedding inspiration!
Let’s be honest and admit that eating is a very important part of anyone’s day…who doesn’t love good food, right? Setting itself apart from other safari lodges with its style and quality of food. Offering a healthy food concept with a typical African flair, even the snacks for game drives, are home-made and if possible, grown in the lodge greenhouse. How is that for quality?!
You can expect beautiful meals by dedicated and experienced chefs who present a different menu daily for brekkie, lunch and dinner.
The exclusive 5-star safari lodge accommodates only 24 guests in luxury suites including a romantic Honeymoon suite and 2 child-friendly Family suites.